LEAP Managed IT strives to provide Ridiculously Helpful insights into Indianapolis Cyber Security Fundamentals. In today’s interconnected world, cyber security has become a vital concern for individuals, businesses, and governments alike. With the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing reliance on digital systems, it is essential to have a basic understanding of cyber security to protect ourselves and our sensitive information from potential threats.
Indianapolis Cyber Security Fundamentals & Best Practices:
Definition and Scope:
Cyber security refers to the practice of protecting computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, theft, or damage.
It encompasses various measures and techniques designed to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information in digital environments.
Malware: Malicious software designed to disrupt computer operations, steal data, or gain unauthorized access.
Phishing: Deceptive emails or messages aiming to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as passwords or financial details.
Social Engineering: Manipulating individuals to gain unauthorized access to systems or information.
DDoS Attacks: Overwhelming a network or website with a flood of traffic to make it inaccessible.
Ransomware: Encrypting files or systems until a ransom is paid to the attacker.
Importance of Strong Passwords:
Passwords serve as the first line of defense against unauthorized access.
Use unique, complex passwords for each account and consider incorporating a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible to add an extra layer of security.
Software Updates and Patches:
Regularly update operating systems, applications, and antivirus software to ensure they have the latest security patches.
Software vendors often release updates to fix vulnerabilities that could be exploited by cybercriminals.
Safe Browsing Practices:
Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading files from unfamiliar websites or suspicious emails.
Verify the legitimacy of websites, especially when entering personal or financial information.
Use secure browsing protocols (HTTPS) to encrypt data transmitted between your browser and websites.
Data Backup:
Regularly backup your important files and data to an external hard drive, cloud storage, or other secure locations.
In the event of a cyber attack or system failure, having a backup ensures you can recover your data without paying ransom or experiencing significant losses.
Awareness of Social Media Risks:
Be mindful of the information you share on social media platforms.
Avoid posting personal details that could be used to guess passwords or answer security questions.
Regularly review and adjust your privacy settings to control who can access your information.
Secure Wi-Fi Networks:
Use strong, unique passwords for your Wi-Fi networks to prevent unauthorized access.
Disable remote management features and change default router login credentials to protect against potential attacks.
Employee Training and Education:
Organizations should provide cyber security training to employees to raise awareness about potential threats and best practices.
Training should cover topics such as phishing attacks, password hygiene, and safe browsing habits.
Incident Reporting and Response:
Establish clear procedures for reporting cyber security incidents within organizations.
Respond promptly to incidents, isolate affected systems, and mitigate further damage.
Learn from each incident to improve future prevention and response strategies.
In conclusion, having a basic understanding of cyber security is crucial in today’s digital landscape. Understanding Indianapolis Cyber Security Fundamentals starts by following best practices; such as using strong passwords, staying vigilant while browsing, and regularly updating software. LEAP Managed IT continues to be a cyber security leader by empowering clients with tools to keep their businesses running and growing. Click here to check out our upcoming Cyber events and register today. we can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cyber threats. Remember, cyber security is a continuous process that requires ongoing awareness and adaptation to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.
In today’s digital age, typing has become an essential skill for success in education, work, and daily life. The ability to type quickly and accurately has numerous benefits, from improving productivity to enhancing communication skills. Teaching typing is crucial to equip individuals with the necessary tools to thrive in the modern world. This article explores the significance of teaching typing and provides valuable sources for learning this vital skill
Typing Tips- Why Type?
Enhanced Productivity: Efficient typing skills significantly increase productivity in various domains. Whether it is writing an essay, composing an email, or conducting research online, the ability to type quickly allows individuals to express their thoughts and ideas more effectively. When typing becomes effortless, individuals can focus on the content rather than struggling with the mechanics of typing, resulting in faster completion of tasks.
Improved Communication: In today’s digital communication landscape, being able to type quickly and accurately is crucial. Whether it’s instant messaging, emails, or social media, effective typing skills enable individuals to express themselves clearly and concisely. Moreover, quick typing allows for timely responses, which is particularly important in professional settings where prompt communication is essential.
Professional Advancement: Typing proficiency is highly valued in the workplace. Many job roles now require individuals to use computers extensively, and typing speed can significantly impact efficiency and productivity. Job seekers with excellent typing skills often have an edge over their competitors, as employers prioritize candidates who can complete tasks quickly and accurately. Teaching typing equips individuals with a transferable skill that enhances their employability in a wide range of industries.
Academic Success: Typing skills are increasingly relevant in the education sector. As digital devices become commonplace in classrooms, students must be able to efficiently type notes, complete assignments, and conduct research online. By teaching typing at an early age, educators empower students to navigate technology effectively, saving time and improving academic performance.
Access to Digital Resources: The internet provides a vast array of resources for learning and personal development. Proficient typing skills enable individuals to take full advantage of these resources. Whether it’s accessing online courses, conducting research, or participating in collaborative projects, typing speed and accuracy ensure a seamless and efficient online experience.
Where do I start?
Online Typing Tutors: Numerous websites offer comprehensive typing courses and exercises, catering to learners of all levels. Some popular online typing tutors include:
Keyboarding Software: Dedicated typing software can provide interactive lessons, games, and exercises to improve typing skills. Examples of popular keyboarding software include:
Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing
TypingMaster
Typesy
Mobile Apps: There are several mobile apps available for learning and practicing typing on smartphones and tablets. Some notable options include:
Typing Fingers LT (iOS)
TypingMaster (iOS and Android)
KeyKey (macOS)
Local Educational Institutions: Schools, colleges, and community centers often offer typing courses as part of their curriculum or as standalone programs. Check with local educational institutions to explore in-person or online typing classes available in your area.
in conclusion, teaching typing is of utmost importance in today’s digital era. The ability to type quickly and accurately empowers individuals to enhance productivity, improve communication, and gain a competitive edge in both academic and professional settings. With the wealth of resources available online and offline, learning to type has become more accessible than ever. By equipping individuals with this essential skill, we can prepare them for success in a technology-driven world.
Ridiculously Helpful Experts at LEAP Managed IT continue to support our clients and future tadpoles! Visit us for more Ridiculously Helpful insights at leapmanagedit.com.
The importance of strong online passwords cannot be overstated in today’s digital age. With the increasing prevalence of cyber threats and data breaches, it is crucial to create and maintain strong passwords to protect our sensitive information. A strong password serves as the first line of defense against unauthorized access. It ensures the safety and security of our online accounts.
Here are some key reasons why strong passwords matter:
Protection against brute-force attacks: Cybercriminals often employ brute-force attacks. Using automated tools to guess passwords by systematically trying every possible combination. A strong password significantly reduces the likelihood of success in such attacks. It typically involves a complex and unique combination of characters that are difficult to guess.
Defense against dictionary attacks: Hackers also use dictionary attacks, where they systematically try common words and phrases from dictionaries or databases of leaked passwords. A strong password, consisting of a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters, makes it much harder for attackers to crack using this method.
Safeguarding personal information: A strong password helps protect personal information such as financial data, email communications, social media accounts, and other sensitive data from unauthorized access. It adds an extra layer of security to prevent identity theft, financial fraud, and other malicious activities.
Prevention of credential stuffing: Many people reuse passwords across multiple accounts, which can be exploited through a technique called credential stuffing. Cybercriminals use stolen username and password combinations from one breach to gain unauthorized access to other accounts of the same individual. By creating unique and strong passwords for each account, this risk is significantly mitigated.
Mitigation of phishing attacks: Phishing attacks are prevalent methods used by cybercriminals to trick individuals into revealing their login credentials. By using strong passwords, individuals can minimize the impact of falling victim to such attacks, as the attackers would still need to bypass the strong password barrier to gain access.
Length is crucial: Opt for a password that is at least 12 characters long. The longer the password, the harder it is to crack. Consider using a passphrase instead of a single word, incorporating a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
Avoid predictable patterns: Avoid using easily guessable patterns like “123456” or “password.” Similarly, avoid using personal information such as your name, birthdate, or address, as these details are often accessible to others.
Unique for each account: It is crucial to use a unique password for each online account. Reusing passwords across multiple accounts increases the risk of credential stuffing attacks. Consider using a password manager tool to securely store and manage your passwords.
Randomness is key: Generate random passwords using a mix of characters, including uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols. Avoid using common sequences or patterns, as they are more susceptible to hacking attempts.
Avoid dictionary words: Steer clear of using common dictionary words or combinations of words as your password. Instead, consider using acronyms, misspellings, or substituting characters with similar-looking symbols or numbers.
Regularly update passwords: It’s important to change passwords periodically, especially for critical accounts. Set reminders to update your passwords every few months to ensure ongoing protection.
Two-factor authentication (2FA): Whenever possible, enable two-factor authentication for your accounts. This adds an extra layer of security, requiring a second verification step, such as a unique code sent to your mobile device, in addition to your password.
By following these guidelines and creating strong passwords. You significantly enhance your online security and reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your accounts. Remember, taking the time to create strong passwords is an investment in protecting your valuable personal and financial information in today’s interconnected world. Stay vigilant, and safeguard your online presence with robust passwords.
How Indianapolis Mobile Device Management companies use software to protect data
Mobile Device Management (MDM) experts help us understand what is MDM. First and foremost, MDM software helps protect data on mobile devices by providing centralized control and management over the devices.
Now, let’s break down what that means.
Device encryption: MDM software enforces encryption policies on mobile devices. Which protects data on the device in case the device is lost or stolen.
Remote wiping: MDM software allows administrators to remotely wipe devices if they are lost or stolen, In turn, prevents unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Access control: MDM software enforces policies for access control. Requires strong passwords or biometric authentication, and restricts access to specific applications or data.
Device monitoring: MDM software monitors devices for security breaches, such as jailbreaking or rooting. Then alerts administrators if a breach is detected.
Application management: MDM software manages and enforces policies for the installation and use of applications on mobile devices. Furthermore, helps prevent the installation of malicious apps that could compromise data security.
Compliance enforcement: MDM software enforces compliance with security policies and regulations, such as HIPAA or GDPR. Likewise, helps organizations avoid potential fines or legal action.
Overall, Indianapolis Mobile Device Management experts help provide organizations with greater control and visibility over mobile devices, which can help protect sensitive data and reduce the risk of data breaches.
Indianapolis Experts at LEAP Managed IT help businesses grow through advancing their technology and helping business owners sleep better at night. LEAP helps businesses in Indianapolis, Westfield, Carmel, Zionsville, Greenwood and the surrounding areas. Contact LEAP Today!
We all worry about keeping our tablets, phones, and devices secure and free from malware. However, keeping track of all the hacking possibilities is almost impossible! Last week the FBI issued a warning about charging our devices in public places.
Are there easy things we can do to help lower the risk? Fortunately, the Indianapolis IT experts at LEAP Managed IT are here to help. Hence, they have created a Ridiculously Helpful six-step guide to help us!
When we travel, we worry about making sure we have enough battery life on our devices to get us to our final destination. When we spot an open outlet at an airport, our excitement level intently rises!
First, we look around for obstacles and then hustle to the outlet without anyone getting in our way. We pull out our devices, breathe easily and plug in. Again, we feel extra fortunate. Someone has left a charging cable or a cube behind. At last, the universe has smiled at us!
Unfortunately, the “bad guys” rejoice as well. As soon as we plug into that cube or cable, they win. We just gave them access to all of our data and secure information.
Luckily for us, Indianapolis IT experts share tips on how to keep our sensitive data secure.
Ridiculously Helpful tips form Indianapolis IT experts at LEAP Managed IT:
Avoid using public charging ports: Public charging ports are often found in public areas such as airports, cafes, and train stations. These ports may be convenient, but they can also be compromised by hackers looking to steal your personal information. Instead, carry a portable charger with you or use a wall charger.
Use your own charging cable: Public charging ports often have USB cables attached to them, but these cables may have been tampered with to install malware or steal data. To be safe, use your own charging cable and avoid using cables provided by others.
Use a data blocker: A data blocker is a small device that plugs into your phone’s charging port and blocks data transfer while still allowing your phone to charge. This prevents hackers from stealing your data while you charge your phone in public.
Keep an eye on your phone: It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your phone while it’s charging in public. If you need to leave it unattended, ask a trustworthy person to watch it for you.
Use a password or biometric authentication: Protect your phone with a password or biometric authentication such as a fingerprint or facial recognition. This will prevent anyone from accessing your phone if it’s stolen or lost.
Overall, it’s best to avoid charging your phone in public if possible. Instead, plan ahead and carry a portable charger or use a wall charger in a private location.
Managed Security Providers (MSPs) or Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) offer various programs and IT solutions. Here is what you need to know and questions to
ask when looking in Indianapolis for a Ridiculously Helpful IT provider.
We experts at Leap Managed IT will share a few key points that you need to know and consider before choosing your IT service provider..
What are Managed IT Services?
Managed services IT are any responsibilities frequently connected to business IT services offered by outside parties. Managed IT services are a way to delegate routine tasks to experts in order to cut costs, improve service levels, and free up internal teams to work on company-specific initiatives. The companies that provide these services are known as managed service providers (MSPs). This service is specialized and can be customized to meet the needs of the company.
It integrates with your current system and handles challenging situations with ease. It becomes part of your existing infrastructure.
What Should You Check for While Outsourcing IT Services?
Benefits of Outsourcing IT Services – LeapManagedIT
Device and Inventory Management
The efficiency of your machinery, devices, and tools is crucial to the health and safety of your company. Make sure the outsourcing IT company can assist in managing your hardware and the data it houses.
Ensure the agency can choose the hardware that will benefit your company the most and cost it the least. Therefore, they will ensure that you stay within your spending limit when making purchases. You won’t misplace any of your technological assets either.
Security & Compliance
The core elements of effective IT asset management are compliance and the implementation of security measures. These are essential for reducing risks and preventing threats. You should inquire whether the outsourced IT support services have the ability to help reinforce corporate security guidelines.
The outsourced IT company will work closely with your company’s IT department. Ask them if they have the storage and data management capabilities to handle sensitive client and business data. You might need to confirm that the IT service provider is certified in order to handle any information management and network security issues. Additionally, The best data security management for businesses should provide complete redundancy and IT disaster recovery services.
Dedicated Helpdesk and Real-Time Support
Dedicated helpdesk support is essential as it is all about handling installation errors, glitches, or any other technical issues in your organization. The first requirement for a company to increase productivity is to have committed support for the services it provides. Contrary to the other internal resources, the company must provide round-the-clock assistance. As a result, a managed service provider can provide flexible, committed, and superior helpdesk support. Make sure that the IT service provider you choose comes with flexible and dedicated real-time support.
Network Management & Server Management
Organizations that try to handle all the activities of network management usually get stuck where the in-house team cannot help in finding a solution due to a lack of experience. Make sure the IT service provider is capable of offering network and server management activities as they will have better control of the network and server issues. The team of experts can also help to mitigate the risks and any other problems that might occur in both network and server management. Ensure you collect the activities that the outsourced IT team can provide if they are providing, network and server management.
Backup and Disaster Recovery
The business continuity plan specifically mentions the actions that would aid the organization in continuing to operate in the event of an interruption. Losing the owner or a significant client, unexpected weather events could cause a disruption. The main goal of contingency planning is to keep the business operating no matter what happens.
Significantly, a disaster recovery plan outlines steps to restore a business following a disaster. It offers guidance on how to react in unanticipated circumstances. The crisis could, for instance, be caused by cyberattacks, natural disasters, or any other disruption. The plan also includes techniques for dealing with disaster’s aftereffects and assisting organizations to function normally. These are all necessary to run your organization in a more stabilized way. Before you hire an outsourced team, make sure that they can help you with a secure backup and speedy recovery from disturbances, regardless of the cause.
Quarterly Reviews
Quarterly reviews are where you analyze the numbers on the performance of your business every three months. If you have outsourced a team to handle your IT activities ensure that they can also generate a quarterly report on your performance. This is an added advantage, as you get to know where you are. When the IT team can generate reports, this would even make it evident where they are lagging and what are the necessary steps to be taken for the enhancement of your business.
Shout Out and Choose
In conclusion, managed IT service provider that is outsourced will assist businesses in achieving their primary goals and meeting the demands of expanding organizations. Comprehensive IT teams handle every aspect of IT, freeing up internal resources. But, you must ensure that they are suitable and satisfy your business needs by shouting out a few crucial questions that might help you to choose the right one.
Want to learn more about how LEAP Managed IT helps Indianapolis, Carmel, Greenwood, Zionsville, and the surrounding areas grow?
Blockchain technology is the least understood but, at the same time, a hot topic in this digitalized world. This powerful technology can do more for the growth of your business. Understanding its concept and benefits can help you to implement it in a way that is suitable and beneficial for your niche.
We experts at Leap Managed IT will share information about blockchain technology and how it impacts any industry.
What is Blockchain Technology?
Blockchain is a distributed database/ledger that stores information in a digital format. It is the process of maintaining a decentralized record of transactions in a business network. The key difference between a typical database and a blockchain is the structure of the data. The data entered here is irreversible.
Blockchain collects information in groups called blocks, which contain sets of information. Blocks have a certain amount of storage, and when they are full they are closed and linked to previously filled blocks, creating a chain of data called a blockchain. Any new information following the newly added block will be compiled into a newly formed block and also added to the chain as it fills.
Industries that make use of blockchain technology are:
Healthcare
Retail
Supply Chain Management
Telecommunications
Manufacturing
Insurance
Financial Services
Travel
How is Blockchain Technology Used in Everyday Businesses?
Businesses can utilize blockchain technology in the following ways:,
Securing, storing, and transferring records with its built-in encryption features. This is affordable for storing data when compared to renting a space in a data center
The record-holding technology in blockchain can help in solving many issues involved in supply chain management
Blockchain technology can be used to eliminate the difficulties associated with managing contracts for businesses
In blockchain technology, no records can be deleted and everyone on the chain can view the whole blocks
Blockchain technology was originally developed for transferring the values of various cryptocurrencies
The concept of timestamping in blockchain technology will protect the document from getting altered. This is helpful when working on any open-source projects
Blockchain Technology Business Benefits – LeapManagedIT
How Financial Sectors are Benefited From Blockchain Technology?
The impact of blockchain technology in the financial sector is as follows,
Improved transparency – As all the activities are performed on a public ledger hence, blockchain technology makes the financial industry more transparent. This transparency helps in reducing the risks in the financial sector.
Added security – Financial companies are always a target for cybercriminals. Digital payments are becoming more popular, and it also carries the risk of information being stolen. Blockchain technology can help in delivering more efficient and secure transactions as it uses cryptographic algorithms to process transactions. Other businesses and especially financial institutions must implement blockchain technology to build data integrity.
Direct payments – Most of the transactions are processed through financial institutions such as banks, and credit card companies with complexity and high transaction fees. When transactions are happening through blockchain it reduces or eliminates fees, fewer scams, is quick, reversible, and consumes less time and money.
Reduced error handling – Data cannot be altered in the blockchain. Data recorded in blockchain can easily be tracked and analyzed, leaving a very detailed audit trail. The detailed analysis would help in eliminating or reducing the errors.
Reduced fraud – Blockchain stores data in a ledger where every transaction is recorded and can also be viewed by anyone in the chain. Everyone in the chain will also receive a copy of the transaction that is happening. These features make blockchain technology resistant to hackers and cyber attacks.
Customer data storage – Financial companies have to deal with a lot of customer data and its verification process which would require an investment of more time and money. Whereas blockchain technology can make this process easier. Customer data can be stored on the blockchain after completing the KYC process. This would eliminate the process of KYC every time when dealing with a new financial account.
Financial inclusion – The startup gets an opportunity to compete with major banks as blockchain technology is reasonable when it comes to cost. This would eventually promote financial inclusion. Due to limitations like minimum balance requirements, limited access, and banking fees, many consumers are searching for banking alternatives. Blockchain may offer a hassle-free alternative to traditional banking that makes use of mobile devices and digital identification.
Cryptocurrency – The latest type of assets that rely on the blockchain are digital currencies. Although there is already a market for digital money, blockchain businesses are lowering the entry barrier and offering a frictionless exchange of the most well-known cryptocurrencies as a banking substitute.
How Blockchain is Beneficial to Other Businesses?
Great transparency – As blockchain uses distributed ledger technology, data and other transactions are recorded and accessible to anyone in the chain. This would increase reliability, and transparency in the system and also creates an opportunity for understanding the activities in a better way.
Traceability – Blockchain technology is very useful when it comes to supply chain management as it can help in tracking any product or merchandise during shipment.
Security – The blockchain is substantially more secure than traditional storage systems since it uses encrypted digital signatures and transactions. Blockchain technology also allows for addressing privacy concerns. Moreover, as data is stored on a network of computers rather than a single server, hackers cannot easily access the information.
Efficiency – Blockchain technology improves efficiency in the overall performance of your business. The smart contracts, the transparent transactions, and assurance on all the agreed terms will be met. All these would significantly increase the efficiency of your business.
It’s Time for Blockchain
Blockchain is essential for every industry. It may also be used for any type of business, including manufacturing, retail,, healthcare, real estate, and more. So, get started in the developing world of blockchain today. When it comes to financial services, implementing blockchain technology is quite challenging, despite that many financial companies have started using it, and it is becoming a more popular investment. It’s clear that the finance industry has understood the potential advantages and will be a part of it going forward.
Learn how Indianapolis Managed IT Leader helps local businesses with their technology needs. Helping create roadmaps and a Master Plan for our partners. Taking away stress and IT frustrations. Speak with our Ridiculously Helpful team to learn more. Click Here to watch tips on creating a Master Plan.
Being Ridiculously Helpful is just second nature at LEAP Managed IT Indianapolis. Thus, again, by popular demand, Mike is back with his list of Favorite Tech Things 2022!
This year, Mike has taken it one step further. He is sharing all thing security related. From personal security to home security and best security gifts.
As always, the more you interact by posting comments and sharing the event, the more chances you have to win all the gifts Mike is featuring. What will the top items be this year, find out what made the cut and learn about all of Mike’s Favorite Tech Gifts!
Businesses of any size must conduct security audits regularly as it helps in protecting the business from being vulnerable to security attacks. A security audit not only protects your data but also helps in detecting the resources that can bring cyber attacks to your business.
We, cyber security experts at LEAP Managed IT will share some important information about preparing for a security audit.
What is a Security Audit?
A detailed evaluation of your organization’s information system is known as a “Security Audit”. This evaluation compares the security of your system to a checklist of industry best practices, standards, or governmental regulations.
It is essential that companies must stick to certain compliance standards. Moreover, you must ensure that these compliance certifications are renewed each year and this can be done when you perform security audits either internally or externally on a regular basis. Furthermore, customers may occasionally request you to audit the security of your company, to ensure the security of their data against attackers.
Security Audit Checklist for Businesses – Leap Managed IT
Prepare Your Business For a Security Audit
The security audit can help improve your business’s cybersecurity system and as well as find flaws that will pave the way for security attacks.
Below are some ways to prepare for your security audit,
1. Find Out the Reason For the Audit
Analyzing the reason for the audit is critical, and some fundamental reasons for security audit could be:
Helps in reviewing whether the business is compliant to all necessary regulations and guidelines
Helps in identifying the gaps and flaws in the existing system
Eliminates vulnerabilities and improving the network’s cybersecurity
Evaluates the existing policies
2. Notifying Both Internal and External Stakeholders
It helps everyone in the organization to take steps in advance and prepare for the audit. This step is all about arranging a meeting with your team, assigning roles and responsibilities, and ensuring all the necessary things are taken care of before the audit. Notifying the stakeholders is important because it will help auditors with a better understanding of the company’s policies and procedures.
3. Evaluating Your Inventory
Understanding your organization’s assets and inventory will help you in evaluating your current status and as well as helps in preparing for the audit. Hence, evaluate your inventory to avoid interruptions during the security audit.
4. Review and Cross-Check Your Policies
Your company has a variety of security policies, examine them to ensure that they are in place and consistent. This step will also help in finding outdated policies and keeping them current. If any of your policies are outdated then, it may create interruptions during the security audit.
5. Examine the Outcome of Your Previous Security Audits
Examine your prior records if you have ever undergone an audit. Verify that you have put the previous advice into practice. You can understand all the standards by looking at the results of your previous audits.
6. Prepare a Checklist
Make a list of all the papers and documents you will need for the audit before you begin. This will assist in getting ready for the audit beforehand and centralizing information for simple access. The checklist is effective since it will lessen unnecessary stress for the auditors and the organization throughout the audit.
7. Self-Assessment
Making a self-evaluation before allowing external auditors to access your files and documents is a wise move. Finding security threats and weaknesses in your firm can be aided by conducting an honest and competent internal audit. The outcomes of the self-assessment can then be compared to those of the external audit. Because you already know what to do and can try to rectify the problems before the audit, this situation is less stressful.
Checklist For your Security Audit
Performing a security audit is a way to monitor and evaluate your company’s system. The checklist below will help you in preparing your company for the audit:
Define the scope of the audit – determining the assets that you need to focus on during the audit
Determine the threats – making a list of all potential threats
Evaluate the current level of security performance – assessing the current level of security performance can identify the weak links
Set up configuration scans – can detect security vulnerabilities
Reports – keep an eye on the reports as they can generate valuable information
Inspect the servers – check for server configuration and monitor DNS for any unexpected changes
Run phishing tests– can assess your vulnerability level
Penetration testing – locates all access points and removes unauthorized points
Monitor firewalls – keep an eye on any inconsistent and unusual behavior in the firewall
Share your audit – create transparency with your team by sharing what you have found
Ready for Your Security Audit?
Every organization finds a security audit to be a stressful process. However, it’s also a great chance to upgrade and strengthen your operating and security systems. A security audit will assist in defending your company from threats. So always perform regular security assessments for the sake of your company.
Get ready for the audit in advance.
Assign roles and duties to the members of your team
Examine your security procedures
Make a self-evaluation
Prepare for the actual audit
Being the Ridiculously Helpful IT Leader in Indianapolis and Central Indiana is not easy. Our goal is to help clients in the Indianapolis area feel confident about their technology while focusing on growth and the things that are important to them.
See how we help clients by developing a tailored IT Master Plan and how we can be Ridiculously Helpful to you. Click here to learn more:
“See Yourself in Cyber” This is the Cybersecurity Awareness theme for this year. As we all know, October is Cybersecurity Awareness month, with the intention to help individuals to protect themselves online from cybersecurity threats.
With this in mind, we experts at LEAP are creating cybersecurity awareness by sharing information about the most popular cybersecurity threats that are spreading worldwide due to the growing technology.
Most Popular Cybersecurity Threats That Are Spreading Worldwide
You might be aware of common cybersecurity attacks like phishing, ransomware, malware, and more. The list below can be considered as another level of security threats that can happen to any business if proper security practices are not followed,
1. Rise of Automotive Hacking
You are aware of the hacking of computers, phones, and personal data or about the leakage of information. What many people are not aware of is, cars are getting hacked. Yes, you read it right. The rise of technology has created a world full of possibilities, where you have the option to choose from a basic model car to one that has cut-edge technology implemented into it. The car is loaded with a variety of software that makes it work. Additionally, these software programs can take control of your car as well as its infotainment system.
The computers communicate using different networks and messaging protocols to connect the engine and control brakes. The touch screen system, integration of your phone to the car for wireless communication, and more. All these sounds to be hi-tech but, did you ever think that these amenities are making your car vulnerable to cyber attacks?
The more the cars are computerized, the more they are open to hackers. Hackers can easily take control of the ECU of your car and gain access to all the information and can even get control of the movement of the car. The possibility of security vulnerabilities occurs when you are connected to the internet.
2. Potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI can be suitable for any business strategy. Before starting with artificial intelligence, get to understand its workflow, data collection, and analysis that gets into it. By understanding the methodology behind AI, you can determine how it can be implemented in your industry.
Below are a few examples of how AI can be configured in business,
Chatbot – Chatbots can help businesses to improve their customer service. They can streamline the customer service process by answering the customers’ queries. Chatbots can even handle situations in a more personalized manner and importantly, they are available round the clock.
Product Recommendations – eCommerce businesses can use AI for product recommendations and keep their customers engaged. By understanding customers and recommending products based on their interests and behavior is a very efficient strategy when it comes to an eCommerce space.
Audience Segmentation – AI can be used to segment audiences and send targeted campaigns based on their interests. AIs can also be used for predicting how the users would respond to every campaign.
Identifying Fraud – Using machine learning algorithms, businesses can detect and respond to threats. In the financial industry, tools are used for identifying suspicious transactions. If detecting any risk, the transaction is stopped and an alert is sent to the respective users.
3. Mobile Phone Targeting
With the rise in the usage of mobile phones all around the world, more opportunities are created for hackers to target them and steal private information. Mobile phones are a popular target among cybercriminals as they can be accessed in several ways. People frequently keep downloading applications and software for free, which seems not to be safe and reliable. In addition to this, the majority of people will have applications running in the background without realizing it, and this is one of the entry points for hackers.
It is an advantage for hackers as the usage of emails through mobile phones keeps on increasing, and they use phishing and spam attacks to access mobile phone data. Data leakage on mobile phones occurs when necessary security measures are not implemented. This leads to the exposure of the user’s personal data.
To avoid this, you must allow permissions only when there is an absolute necessity in the application. For example, if you have downloaded an application, it asks for permission to access your camera but, you don’t intend to use it for creating videos then, do not provide the access. If the mobile phone users are granting access for all the requested permissions then, there occurs data leakage as it’s an entry point for the hackers.
4. Cloud Vulnerabilities
Cloud computing has several advantages — it is affordable, and its features make the data available, aiding productivity when compared to the traditional data center. Though most businesses are shifting to cloud services, data security is the key point that needs to be considered. The rise in the usage of cloud services is also increasing its chances of getting vulnerable to cyber attacks. Some popular cloud vulnerabilities are,
Cloud Misconfiguration – This occurs when an organization fails to set cloud storage correctly. Unsecure identity management, public data storage, and lack of good security practices are considered to be misconfigurations in cloud computing.
Insecure APIs – APIs are required and are made public for businesses. The APIs are implemented without sufficient authentication and authorization, as anybody with the internet can access them. As a result, they become a target for hackers.
Lack of Visibility – When businesses use various instances of cloud services, losing of data might be simple. Visibility to see cloud infrastructure is a serious problem that can delay responding to threats and lead to a data breach.
Lack of MFA – Multi-factor authentication is always an extra layer of security for your business. When businesses fail to implement this, it is creating an opportunity for hackers to access your data easily.
Malicious Insiders – Though you have implemented necessary security measures, malicious insiders like your employees, contractors, or business partners can still be harmful.
5. Data Breaches
Losing information from a system, without authorization is a data breach. Businesses of any level, small or large, or an individual can become a victim of a data breach. The stolen data may involve confidential and sensitive data, such as customer details, credit card details, trade secrets, or even data on national security. Malicious methods like phishing, brute force attack, and malware for breaching the data.
Common methods of a data breach include,
A malicious insider
Payment card fraud
Stolen or lost portable devices
Unintended disclosure
Unknown
6. Targeted Ransomware
Encrypting the vital data of an individual or an organization, which makes it impossible to access their data. Access will be given on demanding a ransom. In the quest for larger payments, hackers are now starting with targeted ransomware. Here, the hackers apply specific strategies and approaches to target companies, depending on their capacity to pay the ransom. This is termed big game hunting.
The hackers make a thorough analysis of the victim’s weaknesses, and strengths using innovative and considerable efforts. They also chose to encrypt the most valuable data and hold it for ransom. Also, they use privileges to bypass detection and security measures before installing the malware into the business.
Sectors of ransomware are,
Education
Retail
Information Technology
Financial Services
7. State-Sponsored Cyber Warfare
States can hire hackers directly by using their militaries and other government agencies and also fund them indirectly. This makes it simpler to disprove the state’s involvement in the discovery of the attack, reducing the diplomatic effects that these attacks may have.
Additionally, it blurs the difference between government and criminal organizations. The state-sponsored organizations then focus on their funders’ enemies for a variety of reasons.
State-sponsored cyber attacks involve,
Discovering political secrets, corporate secrets, and technologies
Attacking critical companies and their infrastructure
Spreading disinformation
Simply to check the capability of the attacker
Keep Your Business Secure Today
Though the digital world brings more advancement, the chances of becoming a victim of cyber attacks are also increasing. Hence, you can never keep your data private if you are not following the necessary security measures. If you were not serious about your business’s security, then, it’s time for it. Ensure you maintain good security practices within your organization and among your workforce.
Though security for data cannot be guaranteed in this digital world, getting partnered with a reputed managed service provider can help in securing the network from cyber threats. Either, a managed service provider can help the system before any vulnerabilities occur or can help in retrieving the lost data .
Are you looking for expert guidance in cybersecurity? Services at Leap begin with an IT Master Plan. Our expert team at Leap Managed IT can help in identifying the obstacles and create strategies by understanding the pain points.
Want to learn more about having a sustainable approach to IT? Speak with our Ridiculously Helpful team to learn how we can create a comprehensive roadmap for your technology. Helping Clients in Indianapolis, Carmel, Zionsville, and Greenwood.
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In this article, we have defined some of the technical buzzwords which are essential to know if you are running a business of any size. Knowing the basics of these technical terms will help you to decide whether to implement it for your business or not. We, the experts at Leap have gathered the most trending tech terms and are sharing them here.
Blockchain Technology
Blockchain is a distributed database/ledger that stores information in a digital format. It is the process of maintaining a decentralized record of transactions in a business network. The key difference between a typical database and a blockchain is the structure of the data. The data entered here is irreversible.
Blockchain collects information in groups called blocks, which contain sets of information. Blocks have a certain amount of storage, and when they are full they are closed and linked to previously filled blocks, creating a chain of data called a blockchain. Any new information following the newly added block will be compiled into a newly formed block and also added to the chain as it fills.
Industries that make use of blockchain technology are:
Healthcare
Retail
Supply Chain Management
Telecommunications
Manufacturing
Insurance
Financial Services
Travel
Chatbot
The chatbot is a software or computer program that stimulates human conversations through text or conversations. This allows users to converse with digital devices as if they were communicating with humans. Chatbots can be used in both B2B and B2C environments, as they can easily handle and virtually assist simple tasks. There are varying levels of complexity in chatbots.
Task-oriented chatbots: Some chatbots approach each conversation and interact with new users. It focuses on performing one function and generates automated, conversational responses to users’ inquiries. These chatbots can handle common queries and do not involve a variety of variables.
Data-driven chatbots: Some analyze previous conversations and frame a new conversation based on the context. These are referred to as digital assistants. Here, the chatbots apply predictive intelligence to enable personalization based on users’ behavior and profile.
Chatbots improve efficiency and bring in cost savings to businesses by offering convenience for customers. This concept here is to reduce human interaction and automate FAQs. Here are a few more chatbot facts:
Reduces customers’ waiting time
24/7 availability
Automates lead generation and sales
Improves customer engagement
Better user experience
Datafication
Datafication is all about collective tools, technologies, and processes used to transform an organization into a data-driven enterprise. This buzzword describes the tendency of organizations to define the key to their core business through their global reliance on data and related infrastructure. Datafication is also referred to as Datafy. An organization that practices digitization is said to be digitized.
Industries where datafication is active,
Insurance
Human Resources
Banking
Hiring and Recruitment
Social Science Research
End Point Detection
EDR is a security tool that continuously detects, analyzes, mitigates, and isolates threats on endpoints as they are progressing. It is becoming a requirement for protecting a company from cyber attacks and APT (advanced persistent threats). The tool works beyond traditional security tools, and its importance is to minimize the damage that could be caused by the attack.
For an organization’s cyber security strategy, endpoint security is an essential component. The EDR, with its tools and security analysts feature, can efficiently identify threats to protect your business.
EDR is quite different from traditional security tools in terms of completeness. The advanced security solution logs all the activities performed at the endpoints. Thus, helping with an in-depth understanding of the attack and generating a quick response to eliminate the threats.
The importance of EDR is as follow:
Provides full visibility regarding the status of the network’s endpoints
Also, EDR is capable of automating data collection and response activities
It also allows the security team to perform a rapid investigation of any security incident and take steps to rectify them
EDR allows threat hunters in identifying and investigating the activities of an existing infection
Gamification
Gamification is the process of adding game mechanics to environments like websites, online communities, learning management systems, or any business intranet. The main objective of gamification is to make consumers, and employees engage, collaborate, and interact. Gamification with its implementation of game mechanics and dynamics would help in the accomplishment of business objectives and goals.
A compelling gamification program would make the participants more interactive as they receive immediate feedback on performance and guide towards new achievements. Gamification is all about driving engagement and the participants would learn the best way to interact with your business, services, and brand. This can also help in gaining some insightful data which could help to influence marketing, campaigns, and more. Every interaction can help in understanding the participant’s behavior and the time they spend on the activities that they are interested in.
Business can improve their results through the concept of gamification, and some of them are:
Increases problem solving ability
Increases level of engagement
Employees will be more productive
Better performances and strive to reach business goals
Calculated and rational business decisions
Social Strengthening
Machine Learning
Machine learning is a type of artificial intelligence that would give computers the ability to learn without explicitly being programmed. It is the ability of a machine to stimulate human behavior. Behind the scenes of chatbots, language translational tools, autonomous vehicles, and machines that diagnose medical conditions is machine learning.
Machine learning is all about data like numbers, images, text, and more. The data could be bank transactions, pictures of people/products, sales reports, and more. Here, the data is collected and prepared to be used as training data. The more data, the better the program.
Functions of machine learning are,
Descriptive – the data is used to explain what happened
Predictive – the data is used to predict what will happen
Prescriptive – the data is used to give suggestions and what needs to be done next
Why implement machine learning?
Helps in analyzing customers’ behavior and predicting based on their purchase list/browser history
Guides with predictive maintenance can reduce the risk associated with unexpected failures and expenses
Eliminates manual entry data
Neural networks can detect spam and phishing messages
Used for financial analysis
Can help with product recommendations for e-commerce business
Medical diagnosis can help the healthcare industry
Increases customer satisfaction
10 Best Technical Buzzwords for Small Businesses – Leap Managed IT
MSP
A managed service provider (MSP) is an external business that administers and takes on the accountability of a specified range of daily management services for its clients. Large enterprises, small and medium-sized businesses, non-profit organizations, and governments all use it as a strategic approach of enhancing operations. Many organizations make the strategic decision of outsourcing operational processes, due to the efficiencies and expertise such a program brings.
When engaging with a managed service provider, you can retain overall managerial authority and accountability for the operations being outsourced. Additionally, you have complete control over whatever services you choose to administer internally versus externally.
The MSP will take care of complicated, and time-consuming work that is frequently required. As more businesses begin to understand the advantages of handing over many of their daily operations to a third-party specialist, outsourcing to an MSP is starting to become a more popular trend in business. Some of the popular functions that a managed service provider are:
Network Security
IT Support
Network Administrator
Data Backup
Communication
Human Resources
The benefits of engaging with a managed service provider are,
Allows employees to focus on the core objectives
Moreover, businesses can hire the required team at a flat monthly rate
Maintains a strategic relationship with your solutions for additional savings
Helps businesses to shift from capital expense model to operational expense model
Responses to demand in real-time hence, it can easily handle downtime
Provides expert backup and disaster recovery plan to bring your business back online
MSPs are 24/7/365 available
Partners with your legal team to verify whether the maintenance security and compliance regulations
Phishing
Phishing is said to be the most widespread and common cyber security attack. Here, the hackers use a false identity to enter and scheme users to provide confidential and sensitive information, visit malware pages and download malware.
It is a form of social engineering attack where the users are targeted through email, text messages, and social media accounts. Signs of phishing attacks are an odd sense of messaging, and unusual requests for sensitive information.
How to prevent your business from phishing attacks:
Beware of unusual emails and messages with unusual wording
Be cautious about the links that you receive through emails and messages
Incorporate anti-phishing toolbars as it would help in identifying sites with phishing information
Cloud-based email security providers can also protect you from phishing attacks
Open Source
Open source is generally referred to as Open Source Software. It is the source code that is publicly accessible. Anyone can view, modify, inspect, and distribute the code as they see fit.
Open source software has been developed in a decentralized and collaborative manner, it is quite cheaper, flexible, and has more longevity. These are developed by communities rather than by a single company or author.
Reasons why businesses use open source software:
Easily accessible
Allows to check and track all the activities happening in the code
Very reliable
Affordable and flexibility
Open collaboration
VPN
A VPN is a tool that adds protection and privacy by creating secure connections between user devices and servers. Businesses also utilize VPN because it enables a more secure connection to a company’s internal network. When utilizing the internet from a shared connection, offers more privacy and security.
A safe and encrypted internet connection is first established via a VPN. This implies that any data you transmit or receive via a VPN is secure from hackers. Sending a coded message is similar to how encryption operates. Your data is changed from an understandable format to an unintelligible one when you use encryption technology. The only people who can restore the data to its original state are those who have the encryption key, like those logged into the secret network.
Second, your IP address is concealed from the rest of the internet once you’ve connected to a VPN server. When your IP address is concealed, it is much more difficult for malicious users to connect your online behavior to a specific place or device. Tracing your encrypted data back to the source would be impossible, even if it were intercepted and decoded by a third party.
The importance of connecting through a VPN:
Helps in hiding private information
Avoid data and bandwidth throttling
Allows to access region-blocked services
Provides network stability
Reduces long-distance phone charges
Our experts hope, this article helps you to understand the latest technical terms that are essential for a business.
Are you looking for expert guidance for implementing the latest technologies for your business? Our expert team at Leap Managed IT can help in identifying the obstacles and create strategies by understanding the pain points.
As MSPs, you want to give your clients the best services that include the security of their data and up-to-date maintenance of their systems. In this article, we experts at Leap will be sharing some fundamentals of cybersecurity that are essential to be followed and maintained to keep your clients secure and protected.
Why Cyber Security is Important For Managed Service Providers?
Due to the evolving cyberattacks, cybersecurity has become a major concern for a business. The increase in remote work has accelerated the rise of cyberattacks as mostly a poor attitude toward security is developed in the environment. If you are a managed service provider, you might be dealing with a large sum of sensitive data. Then you would be the prime target for the hackers. If necessary precautions are not implemented, then the impact can be devastating.
Here comes the importance of cybersecurity for an MSP. Implementing the right cybersecurity program will help keep your clients on top of cybersecurity practices.
Cybersecurity Fundamentals for Managed Service Providers
Below are the basics of cybersecurity that need to be covered by a managed service provider.
Network Security
This is referred to as the comprehensive system through which an organization or an individual can access and store data. It is essential that all the devices connected to the internal network are secured against malicious attacks. The term devices here will include laptops, computers, printers, switches, routers, and more. Encouraging the best security practices both internally and externally will help in maintaining the security of the organization.
Detection and Prevention
Implementing methodologies and tools for detecting can help in preventing the system from malicious attacks. The legitimate actors can make use of the same tools and methods as the hackers use for detecting and closing vulnerabilities. Utilizing tools like anti-virus software and other broader services from security operations, and setting continuity plans, can help in detecting and preventing your system from malicious attacks to a particular extent.
Cybersecurity Strategy for Each Client
You may have various types of tools on your tech stack for various purposes. Do you think it is possible for your team to monitor and handle all these tools simultaneously?
To avoid complications, it is better to break down tools depending on their purposes. Conducting a cybersecurity assessment on your pre-sales tool kit would help in understanding your client’s requirements right from the beginning. This would not only help you in defining strategy for each client but also helps in identifying the right tool for the right purpose.
Keep a Log of the Backed Up Data
Being an IT service provider, you will be dealing with data that would also include your clients’ data. When the data is lost, it could be a disaster. In case your network is breached then, you won’t be able to help your customers. Here you can back up your data and keep a log of it so that you can retrieve it whenever required.
Advise Your Clients to Keep Their Network and Devices Protected
Usage of strong passwords is essential, and it is a very basic step that you take when it comes to cybersecurity. Make use of the websites and apps that can help you in creating complex passwords and as well as manage them. Encourage your clients as well as your workforce to utilize those tools and the universal password policy to protect their data. In addition to this, implement the concept of multi-factor authentication, which would add an extra layer of protection to the system.
BYOD and WFH Policies
Anything/anyone that uses corporate resources would increase the risk of data breaches. In this case, ensure any device connected is secure with adequate security protections. Additionally, when it comes to remote work policies, insist your workforce access your network by signing in using VPN. This would protect your network from being vulnerable to cyber attacks.
Mistakes that MSPs MakeWith cybersecurity
Below are a few common mistakes that managed service providers make when it comes to cybersecurity,
Managed service providers usually have a tendency that tools are more than enough to bring in more clients. Here, you have to start by understanding the client’s pain points. You have to make the clients the impotence of cybersecurity relating to them
Focusing just on tools and keep repeating the same strategy for any security issues. Not all security issues are the same, hence, every problem would require a unique solution. Start focusing on the solutions that would work best for the situations. This will help you to concentrate on the client’s requirements and develop a better plan
Never get too technical with your clients. As your clients are not cybersecurity experts, always talk to your clients in such a way that they understand the importance of implementing cybersecurity. Also mention to them ways to deter those threats
Unleash the Perks Of Cybersecurity
Though security for data cannot be guaranteed in this digital world, getting partnered with a reputed managed service provider can help in securing the network from cyber threats. Either, a managed service provider can help the system before any vulnerabilities occur or can help in retrieving the data if it gets breached.
Are you looking for expert guidance in cybersecurity? Services at Leap begin with an IT Master Plan. Our expert team at Leap Managed IT can help in identifying the obstacles and create strategies by understanding the pain points.
Want to learn more about cybersecurity solutions? Speak with our Ridiculously
Helpful team to learn how we can create a comprehensive solution. We also partner with CompTIA for cybersecurity training.
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